Canadian defender Janine Sonis is set to join Denver Summit FC ahead of the club’s inaugural NWSL season. A proven winner at both the club and international levels, Sonis brings an Olympic gold medal and an NWSL championship to the team as it prepares for its first campaign.

“I’m excited to contribute on the field and help build a team that the fans can be proud of. I can’t wait to play in front of a home crowd and be part of the growth of professional soccer in Denver,” Sonis said in a statement.

The transfer marks a return to her roots. Born in Colorado to Canadian parents from Regina, Sask., Sonis grew up in Highlands Ranch, just outside Denver. Louisville will receive $120,000 in intraleague transfer funds for Sonis, with additional performance-based incentives that could raise the total to $160,000. The 31-year-old, who was set to enter the final year of her contract with Louisville, has agreed to terms with Denver through the 2028 NWSL season.

“Janine brings a wealth of professional and international experience to our club,” Denver GM Curt Johnson said. “Her accomplishments at the club and international level, including championship experience and Olympic success, will be a valuable addition as we build our roster and compete in our inaugural season.”

SONIS IS SIGNED 🇨🇦

Welcome home, Janine! pic.twitter.com/i7Cce5tHmD

— Denver Summit FC (@denversummitfc) January 9, 2026

Fans of Louisville were quick to share their nostalgia on social media after Sonis’ post on Instagram Friday: “Playing here this season was one of the greatest joys of my career, and doing it alongside such an exceptional group of people is what I will cherish,” she wrote.

Sonis originally joined Louisville in August 2024 via trade from the Portland Thorns and quickly became a cornerstone for Racing Louisville. In 2025, she earned the role of co-captain and played a central part in guiding the team to its first-ever NWSL playoff appearance. That season, she led the club with five assists, ranking among the league’s top providers, while also scoring three goals.

“Her contributions to our success last year were immeasurable. She is an incredible player, teammate and leader, and a fantastic person all around. We are sad to see her go,” Louisville general manager Caitlyn Flores Milby said in a statement.

Representing Canada, Sonis has scored 36 goals in 123 appearances and remains one of the team’s most influential players. At the club level, she won an NWSL championship with Portland and added two FA Cups and two League Cups in England with Manchester City. She also earned Olympic gold with Canada at the 2020 Games and has taken part in two FIFA Women’s World Cups.